HOT ON THE TRAIL IN ANCIENT EGYPT, by Linda Bailey, Bill Slavin (illustrations), Kids Can Press

All twins Josh and Emma want to do is get out of the creepy Good Times Travel Agency where their little sister, Libby, has led them. But the peculiar shop owner encourages them to open one of his guidebooks first — and they suddenly find themselves transported to ancient Egypt! They’ve barely had time to figure out where they are before Josh is carried away to help build a pyramid for the king. Emma and Libby search everywhere for their brother — including a crowded market, a banquet and a temple — until, at last, they’re reunited. But after an unlucky encounter with the king’s guards, they’re accused of being tomb robbers! Will the children manage to finish reading the entire guidebook — their only way back home — before they are arrested? In this re-issue from an award-winning and critically acclaimed series of graphic novels, Linda Bailey has crafted a fast-paced adventure story that doubles as a thoroughly researched historical overview of ancient Egypt. The unique perspective of modern children experiencing and interacting with people and events from the past brings history to life, while the factual information, presented as pages from the guidebook, fleshes the story out. Many important themes of ancient Egyptian culture and life are touched on: politics and government, philosophy, women’s roles, activities of daily life and celebrations. Bill Slavin’s engaging and detailed illustrations are full of physical comedy and fun. There’s also a bibliography and three pages of further background about ancient Egypt.

Available Editions

EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781771389853
PRICE $12.99 (CAD)

Thank you Net Galley for a copy of this book to read and provide my honest review.

Wow! What an awesome book. This book is perfect for middle graders who want to learn about Ancient Egypt. With a similar thrilling feel found in the TinTin books, the adventures found in Jonny Quest television series of 1964/65, and style of Indiana Jones movies, this graphic novel is illustrated in the same style seen in the comic strip “For Better or Worse” characters. The end result is a whirl of a ride topped off with great illustrations and lots of adventure, while picking up an education regarding Egypt. You can’t go wrong with this book! As soon as I saw the cover, I was hooked. The artwork alone is enough to want to read this book, but add the informative sections about Egypt and the humor, not to mention the whole premise involving time travel and look out!